By Lisa Burnett, Professional Bridal Consultant and owner of Elegant Weddings By Lisa The initial consultation is a get to know each other meeting for both the Bride as well as the Bridal Consultant. In order to get the most out of this meeting, it is best to come prepared. Although most Bridal Consultants are very knowledgeable and creative, your input puts a personal touch on the wedding. Whether you are starting from scratch or you have finalized some details of your wedding, these are some things you can do to enhance your first experience with the bridal consultant:

If you have selected your dress bring a picture, or the style number and designer and be prepared to describe it. If you have not selected your dress give the consultant feed back on the color you plan to wear, as well as the style and formality. Your dress sets the tone for the entire event. If the groom is going to be present at the meeting your consultant will work around this situation without giving the groom an advance vision of the dress.

Bring pictures of flowers, linen, table settings or any other decor or ideas that you have seen and want incorporated in your wedding.

Have an idea of the color scheme you want to use in your wedding.

If you have booked any vendors or your ceremony and reception venues, bring those contracts with you as well as any contact information.

Set a realistic budget and be prepared to discuss it with your consultant honestly. The more your consultant knows about your budget, the better he or she can maximize your dollars.

Have in mind an estimate of the number of guests you plan to have at your wedding.

Decide on how many members you want in your bridal party.

Most importantly set a wedding date, and have an idea of the time of day you want your ceremony to begin.

If you have any family or cultural traditions that you want to incorporate into your wedding make your consultant aware of those as well.

Make sure your consultant is aware of any special family situations.

Prepare a list of questions that you want to ask the consultant.

When selecting your consultant make sure you are comfortable with their personality, as the two of you will be spending a great deal of time together in the months to come planning your wedding. Always make sure the consultant you hire is licensed. A coordinator that is a member of a Bridal Association is a plus, because this means he or she is dedicated to their profession. Never make a decision based on price. The cheapest is not always the best. Remember as with everything in life you get what you pay for. An experienced consultant is priceless.